In an emotional beach-side video, seven-time Super Bowl champion and NFL passing record holder Tom Brady announced his "retiring for good."
The video was shared to his social media accounts exactly one year after he left the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to focus on off-field responsibilities. His reappearance was announced less than two months later.
"Good morning, folks. I'll be direct "voiced in video. "I'm retiring permanently. I remember the procedure being important last time.
When I woke up this morning, I decided to press record and tell you first. I'll be brief. You get one very emotional retirement essay; I used mine last year.
"Thank you everybody for supporting me. My family, friends, teammates, and competition... I can continue forever. Too many. Thank you for letting me live my dream.
My playing career has been an incredible ride with many ups and downs. You don't think about an ending when you're in it every day "continued."
However, as I sit here, I think about all the great players and coaches I played with and against—the competition was strong and deep, just way we want it.
Both friendships and partnerships are strong and profound. I will treasure and revisit these memories. As luckiest person in the world."
15-time Pro Bowler, three-time NFL MVP, three-time All-Pro, five-time Super Bowl MVP, and two-time Offensive Rookie of the Year. The 2000s and 2010s Hall of Fame All-Decades squad included him.